OKC Douglass’ A’Naisha Crawford
By Trina Walker
Wearing the orange and black of Frederick Douglass High School makes A’Naisha Crawford feel good. Her school may not be known for softball, but she is here to make history and put their softball program on the map.
A’Naisha is a junior determined to turn the naysayers into believers. She loves showing everyone that she and her team are more than people believe. This sport has taught her valuable lessons, with one standing out.
“Be vocal. Learning to be a voice for myself and team,” she says, is powerful.
The excitement and challenges of softball feed her passion for the game and her team.
“The forever bond” created with teammates is something one must experience themselves to appreciate.
Ja’Niyah Williams is a teammate who leaves an impression.
“I noticed that she watches me at practice and during the games. That reminded me that someone is always looking up to me. Ja’Niyah is the definition of a true workhorse,” A’Naisha said.
With her older sister playing basketball and her little sisters all playing softball, it was natural for A’Naisha to become an athlete. Their family vacations tend to be sport-related, which makes one vacation stand out.
“I really enjoyed going to Chicago to watch my brother Antwone graduate from Navy bootcamp. I’m proud to call him my big brother,” she said.
A’Naisha credits faith, family and coaches for getting her where she is today.
“God, He has always and will continue to be the head of my life. Special thank you to my parents, who always come through for me. We have had many trips, late nights, long practices, eating dinner in the car; the list goes on. I am forever thankful for them.”
She thanks the following coaches: Coach Travis Kudrna, Coach Jerry Martinez, Coach Dupe, Coach Harold Murphy, Coach Sara Johnson, Coach Julie Lofland, Coach Tonya Simpson, Coach Ashley King and Coach Janan Powell. Each has provided help and support in different ways.
Being selected as player of the year last season is an accomplishment she is most proud of. A’Naisha is an avid athlete who also plays baseball, runs track and wrestles.
Outside of athletics, A’Naisha is interested in law enforcement. Her favorite teacher is Mr. Brown at Metro Tech, who teaches law enforcement.
“Mr. Brown listens and lets me express myself without judgement,” she says.
After high school, A’Naisha plans to play collegiate softball but her ultimate career goal is to become an FBI agent.
